Over the last couple of days whenever I start the 172 (mk2, 2001) from cold, there has been a strange creaking noise coming from the drivers side dash air vent. It disappears after a couple of seconds of the engine running. When I tried to start the car this morning, it wouldn't go on the first attempt. Second try went okay.
I've just been out to start the car again, and now it will not start at all. When I turn the key all the way, I don't even hear the starter motor. There is a 'click' and a really odd sounding high pitch whine that appears to be coming from somewhere deep in the engine bay. The key then stays where I turned it to instead of springing back as it usually does. The instrument panel also goes a bit mad with lights going on and off and the needles vibrate a bit. If I try turning the key again, I just get more clicking and whining.
I've checked the immobiliser light, and it does go out, and the battery seems okay as I can turn the lights on and use the radio. Any ideas before I resign myself to my local dealership?
I've just been out to start the car again, and now it will not start at all. When I turn the key all the way, I don't even hear the starter motor. There is a 'click' and a really odd sounding high pitch whine that appears to be coming from somewhere deep in the engine bay. The key then stays where I turned it to instead of springing back as it usually does. The instrument panel also goes a bit mad with lights going on and off and the needles vibrate a bit. If I try turning the key again, I just get more clicking and whining.
I've checked the immobiliser light, and it does go out, and the battery seems okay as I can turn the lights on and use the radio. Any ideas before I resign myself to my local dealership?